Kenyan Coastal Safari: Sun, Sea, and Swahili Heritage

Kenyan Coastal Safari: Sun, Sea, and Swahili Heritage

5 Days

This 5-day coastal safari takes you on a journey through Kenya’s most enchanting coastal towns, from the vibrant markets and historic forts of Mombasa to the pristine beaches and ancient ruins of Watamu and Lamu. The Kenyan coast offers not only stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters but also a rich blend of Swahili culture, history, and delectable seafood. This adventure blends relaxation and discovery, offering snorkeling in marine parks, exploring ancient Swahili architecture, and enjoying the flavorful coastal cuisine unique to Kenya’s coastline.

Trip Highlights:

  • Explore the historic port city of Mombasa, including the UNESCO-listed Fort Jesus.
  • Dive into Watamu Marine National Park’s coral reefs, with snorkeling and dolphin sightings.
  • Stroll through Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and cultural gem with centuries-old Swahili architecture.
  • Savor fresh seafood delicacies, including grilled lobster, coconut fish curry, and biryani.
  • Relax on Kenya’s most beautiful beaches, from Diani’s white sands to Watamu’s crystal lagoons.

Itinerary

Arrive in Mombasa, Kenya’s coastal gateway. Check into your hotel and get ready to explore the city’s vibrant history and unique cultural blend.

Lunch: Head to Tamarind Restaurant for lunch overlooking the ocean. Try their coconut fish curry or prawns with fragrant pilau rice for a taste of Swahili flavors.

Begin with a visit to Fort Jesus, a 16th-century Portuguese fort that now houses an informative museum. Then, stroll through Old Town, where narrow lanes lined with Swahili, Arabic, and Portuguese architecture tell the city’s story. Enjoy a taste of kaimati (sweet dumplings) or coconut-filled mandazi at a local stall.

Evening Meal: Dinner at Forodhani Restaurant on the seafront, where you can enjoy dishes like grilled lobster, octopus, and tropical fruits.

Accommodation: Serena Beach Resort & Spa or Voyager Beach Resort, both offering ocean views and Swahili-inspired decor.

After breakfast, transfer to Diani Beach, a short drive south of Mombasa. This beautiful beach is known for its powdery white sand, palm-fringed shores, and vibrant coral reefs. Check into your beachside resort and settle in.

Lunch: Enjoy a beachfront lunch at Ali Barbour’s Cave Restaurant, set inside an ancient coral cave, where you can indulge in seafood pasta or grilled snapper.

Afternoon Snorkeling: Head out for a snorkeling adventure in Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park. The park is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and dolphin sightings. Swim among colorful marine life in this underwater paradise, guided by local experts.

Evening Meal: Return to Diani for a Swahili-inspired dinner, including dishes like coconut and lime-marinated red snapper, paired with local greens and plantains.

Accommodation: The Sands at Nomad or Baobab Beach Resort, both offering luxurious stays with beachfront access.

After an early breakfast, transfer to Watamu, a coastal town known for its turquoise waters and coral reefs. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and prepare for a day of marine exploration.

Lunch: Dine at Crab Shack Dabaso, an eco-friendly restaurant on Mida Creek, known for its crab dishes and seafood platters served with coastal spices and coconut rice.

Afternoon: Dive into Watamu Marine National Park for snorkeling among coral gardens filled with tropical fish, turtles, and dolphins. The park is a protected area renowned for its rich biodiversity and clear, shallow waters perfect for snorkeling and kayaking.

Evening Activity: Visit the ancient Gede Ruins, a 12th-century Swahili settlement surrounded by a mystical forest. Wander through stone mosques, tombs, and houses that tell the story of a once-thriving community.

Evening Meal: Return to Watamu for dinner at your hotel or a local eatery, enjoying specialties like Swahili biryani, spiced prawns, and fresh tropical fruit desserts.

Accommodation: Hemingways Watamu or Turtle Bay Beach Club, offering oceanfront stays with lush garden views and coastal charm.

After breakfast, fly from Malindi Airport to Lamu Island, one of Kenya’s oldest Swahili settlements and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check into your accommodation and soak up the relaxed, historical ambiance of Lamu Old Town.

Lunch: Have lunch at Peponi Hotel in Shela Village, where fresh seafood and Swahili dishes are served with a side of ocean breeze. Try their grilled lobster or coconut prawn curry, paired with coconut rice and a refreshing tamarind drink.

Afternoon Cultural Tour: Take a guided walking tour of Lamu Old Town, famous for its centuries-old Swahili architecture, carved wooden doors, and narrow alleys. Visit Lamu Museum for an insight into the island’s culture and history, then stop by a dhow workshop to see traditional boat-building techniques in action.

Enjoy a candlelit dinner on the rooftop at Lamu House Restaurant, where local delicacies like samosas, seafood pilau, and fresh chapati are served with stunning sunset views.

Accommodation: Peponi Hotel or The Majlis Resort, both offering luxurious, culturally-inspired stays with ocean views.

After breakfast, head to Shela Beach for a day of relaxation. Lounge on the soft sand, swim in the warm waters or join a local captain for a dhow sailing experience along the coastline.

Lunch: Return to Peponi Hotel or a nearby beach shack for a light lunch featuring Swahili chapati wraps filled with grilled seafood, salads, and mango salsa.

Afternoon Leisure: Spend your last hours in Lamu exploring local markets, shopping for handcrafted jewelry, Swahili textiles, and carved wooden souvenirs. Walk the beach one last time or simply relax at your hotel before departure.

Evening Meal and Departure: Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring fish samosas, coconut rice, and seasonal fruits as you prepare for your evening flight from Lamu back to Nairobi.

Accommodation: Peponi Hotel or The Majlis Resort for your final night of coastal bliss.

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Kenyan Coastal Safari: Sun, Sea, and Swahili Heritage